December 04, 2024

TrueSculpt Hard Gel: A Versatile Solution for Every Nail Tech's Needs

We're excited to announce the pre-sale of select shades of TrueSculpt Hard Gel, giving our HONA community an exclusive opportunity to try our newest product ahead of the full launch in the new year. In line with our prescriptive manicure guidelines, we've carefully designed TrueSculpt with versatility in mind. Whether you're working on natural overlays, short extensions, or creating durable long extensions, TrueSculpt has you covered. Let’s dive into the three exceptional formulas we’ve created to cater to your unique needs:

  • CORE: This medium/thick viscosity gel is ideal for both natural overlays and short to medium-length extensions. It provides a hard finish with a subtle flex, making it a great choice for clients with heavy hands.

  • EXPRESS: Looking for speed without sacrificing quality? EXPRESS is our thinnest viscosity gel, perfect for quick and easy manicures. It cures to a glossy finish and is perfect for natural overlays, short extensions, or chip repairs.

  • FIBRE: With 10% fibreglass infused, FIBRE offers ultimate strength. This gel is perfect for long extensions or repairing cracked nails, and it's incredibly durable once cured.

Now that you've met the range, let's tackle some of your most common questions!

Frequently Asked Questions About TrueSculpt Hard Gel

1. Do I need a base with TrueSculpt? No! All TrueSculpt gels have a built-in base coat. However, for optimal retention, we recommend curing PureBond (our bonding primer) for 30 seconds underneath. Some techs also use a rubber base for easier soak-offs after debulking, though this is optional.

2. What are the main differences between the 3 formulas?

  • EXPRESS: The thinnest viscosity with a built-in top coat after wiping the inhibition layer. It self-levels quickly, making it perfect for natural overlays and short extensions or chip repairs.
  • CORE: Slight flex, making it great for both natural overlays and medium-length extensions.
  • FIBRE: Infused with 10% fibreglass, this formula is the strongest of the three, ideal for long extensions and repairing nail rips and splits.

3. Can I mix TrueSculpt formulas? Absolutely! You can layer TrueSculpt gels. For example, use FIBRE for a strong base layer to repair a nail split, then finish with EXPRESS for the built-in top coat properties.

4. How should I price TrueSculpt? Pricing depends on what you're using it for. Natural overlays will cost less than building extensions with forms. Longer extensions require more product, so the price will be higher. As TrueSculpt is a specialist product that requires additional training, it's best to price it higher than your SwiftTips service.

5. Do I need a slip layer? This is a personal preference. However, since TrueSculpt is thicker than regular builder gel, a slip layer (a wet layer) can help you move the product into place when building your structure layer.

6. Can I use chrome on top of EXPRESS since it has a built-in top coat? No, not directly. EXPRESS cures to a tacky finish. After wiping the inhibition layer, you can apply our Super Shine Top Coat (non-wipe) for chrome to adhere perfectly.

7. Can all hard gels be used for natural nail overlays?Yes! All of our hard gels can be used for natural nail overlays. Whether you're using TrueSculpt or any of our other hard gel products, they're designed to provide strong, long-lasting results on natural nails. Make sure to follow the proper application techniques for the best results.

PRICING YOUR HARD GEL SERVICE 

When pricing your hard gel services, it's important to keep in mind that the cost per treatment for hard gels is typically higher than traditional builder gels. With this in mind, it’s essential to adjust your pricing to reflect the quality and durability that TrueSculpt offers. Here’s a breakdown of the cost per treatment:

  • TrueSculpt Core: £36.00 per pot, averaging 40 sets (natural nail overlays) – £0.90 per treatment
  • TrueSculpt Express: £37.20 per pot, averaging 40 sets – £0.94 per treatment
  • TrueSculpt Fibre: £38.40 per pot, averaging 40 sets – £0.96 per treatment

When communicating this to clients, it’s important to emphasise the superior benefits of hard gel, such as its strength, longevity, and natural look. You can explain that while the initial cost may be slightly higher, they are receiving a longer-lasting, premium treatment that delivers excellent results. Be sure to adjust your pricing accordingly to ensure you're covering your costs while offering the best value to your clients.

How does this incorporate with our prescriptive manicure approach  

At HONA, we are committed to a prescriptive manicure approach, carefully selecting products tailored to each client's unique nail needs. This approach extends to our TrueSculpt Hard Gel range, offering the perfect solution for various nail concerns. Whether your client is looking for added length, strength, or durability, our hard gels provide the ideal solution.

When your client has/wants:

  • added length (extensions)
  • Has natural and long nails that chip or snap
  • Has brittle nails

Solution: If your client needs added strength, stability or length. The TrueSculpt Hard gel range will be the best bet! Designed to be sculpted on forms or used with tips and great for natural nail overlays for long or short nails. Hard gel has much less flex and will give your client the strength they need for a long lasting service.

Summary 

The TrueSculpt Hard Gel range offers three versatile formulas—Core, Express, and Fibre—designed to cater to a variety of client needs, from natural overlays to long-lasting extensions. With our prescriptive manicure approach, TrueSculpt allows you to customise services based on your client's specific nail concerns, providing strength, durability, and flexibility. Whether you're adding length or enhancing strength, TrueSculpt ensures a premium, long-lasting finish that will elevate your nail services and delight your clients. 

Written by Grace Evans